The open-architecture, advanced control segment will support the entire constellation of current and future GPS satellites. The company’s proposed communications architecture applies software-defined radio (SDR) technology to GPS monitor stations. This innovative approach significantly reduces life-cycle costs by enabling software/firmware upgrades across the network, supporting new signals from new satellites, and enabling future re-use without requiring completely re-designed hardware. Five generations of Harris SDR solutions have been fielded for missions ranging from highly survivable Anti-Jam telecommunications to advanced signal intelligence receivers. This proven capability is currently in use by thousands of United States military personnel serving in global operations.
The design also incorporates advanced information assurance technology developed by Harris and in use by three of the largest secure networks that carry vital information for the U.S. government agencies supporting nationally important transportation, intelligence and defense missions. The company is also applying to the Northrop Grumman GPS OCX team solution nearly three decades of satellite command and control software expertise supporting some of the largest commercial and military satellite constellations in orbit today. In addition to providing monitoring stations, network systems, and information assurance solutions, Harris will provide site planning, survey, installation, baseline test, and transition services. Harris was awarded a $17 million contract by Northrop Grumman in 2007 to develop the prototype monitor stations and design the initial communications infrastructure as part of Phase A of the pursuit. At a System Design Review earlier this year, Harris presented a comprehensive, live demonstration of a prototype Advanced Monitor Station receiving live signals. The company also successfully demonstrated the network’s communications infrastructure elements, information assurance capabilities, and an interface to legacy ground antennas. Other members of the Northrop Grumman team include Integral Systems, Inc., Lanham, Maryland; Lockheed Martin Information Systems and Global Services, Gaithersburg, Maryland; and Infinity Systems Engineering, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
